Model Aircraft Flying at the Dübimäss 2011

Hans-Peter Hofer’s red Firebird is a very fast turbine jet that has been optimized primarily for high airspeed. Gody Fischer’s highly accurate replica of the Pilatus P-3, on the other hand, represents top-tier scale model building. The model has already taken top honors multiple times at national and international competitions. Daniel Riedweg’s yellow-and-black Yak-54 is an impressive aerobatic model capable of performing a wide range of aerobatic maneuvers over a large area. Roland Bader’s electrically powered Sea-Wolf helicopter, placed between the Yak and the Firebird, requires much less flying space.

For children who love airplanes, there was also a fairly durable throw glider available for purchase at a reasonable price alongside the exhibition. This elegant foam model is truly sturdy and can be thrown into the air almost anywhere. Its excellent flight characteristics help create positive flying experiences even for young children.

Classic model building using the spar-and-rib construction method was also a highlight of the event. Pierre Bühler brought tools and materials with him to continue building his flying wing “Flying Cloud” right in front of the visitors. To help interested spectators visualize the individual construction steps even more realistically, Pierre had brought his laptop. Using it, he was able to demonstrate various construction details as well as the appearance of the finished model in a very vivid way.

Near the fairgrounds, there was also a freshly mowed meadow for in-flight demonstrations. Hans-Peter Hofer’s demonstration of a Hotliner was particularly impressive. After performing elegant maneuvers, the high-speed model suddenly transitioned into a very gentle landing approach and hovered right at the pilot’s feet. The enthusiastic spectators rewarded the successful show with well-deserved applause. Stefan Segerer’s breathtaking helicopter show also provided further excitement and thrills. During the performance, the helicopter’s rotor blades nearly brushed the few remaining blades of grass on the field.

Some of the many visitors wanted to take a look at—

Hermann Mettler